Osprey Guidebook

CV-22 MISSIONOperation Iraqi FreedomJuly – November 2009SNAPSHOTHumanitarian ReliefSOUTHCOM June 2009In July 2009, six CV-22 aircraft from the 8th Special OperationsSquadron (SOS) departed Hurlburt Field, FL, for their first operationaldeployment to Iraq. The CV-22s conducted a successful 7,000nautical mile self-deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.The aircraft completed the transatlantic crossing in 7 days whilecompleting three aerial refuelings along the way. While deployedthe CV-22’s primary mission was to conduct long-range infiltration,exfiltration and resupply missions for special operations forces.During the deployment, the squadron executed and completed 45direct action assault force INFIL/EXFIL missions and 123 combatservice support missions, delivered over 30,250 pounds of cargo,and transported over 2,349 passengers. The CV-22s also supportedthe Iraqi Special Operations Forces (ISOF) in several operations toapprehend suspected terrorists. Although the new aircraft was flownby U.S. Air Force personnel, the troops and mission were led by theelite ISOF soldiers.The CV-22 has proven its value to the warfighter and commanderson the battlefield. The exceptional range, speed and versatility thisaircraft brings to the fight is unmatched by conventional helicopters.While deployed to SOUTHCOM in support of ongoing operationalmissions, three CV-22 aircraft from the 8th SOS contributed airpower to a large scale humanitarian relief effort to the country ofHonduras. Taking advantage of the CV-22’s unique payload and flightcapabilities, the aircraft and crews made three different deliveries ofcritical items to a small remote northeastern village. In total, approximately43,000 pounds of goods were delivered. These goods hadbeen waiting to be delivered for some time, and with the CV’s uniquelift-off/landing capabilities the much needed items, such as nonperishablefood, hospital beds, and textbooks were finally deliveredto the remote village.The CV-22 Osprey’s power, range and speed bring uniquecapabilities to a very broad spectrum of humanitarian relief, as provenin this and other documented V-22 relief efforts.50 CV-22 Operation Iraqi FreedomCV-22 Humanitarian Relief51